Redundancy law - a guide for union reps (November 2019)

Chapter 4

Time off to look for alternative work or arrange training

[ch 4: page 43]

Employees under notice of redundancy are entitled under sections 52-53 ERA to reasonable paid time off to look for work. To qualify, they must have worked for the employer for at least two years by the date of termination of the employment. Time off can include time to look for work, make arrangements for training and to attend job interviews.

There is no fixed amount of time off. If an employer refuses time off or payment for time off, the employee can make a claim to an employment tribunal. The maximum an employer can be ordered to pay is 40% of weekly earnings. The complaint must be made within three months (less one day)of the refusal.


This information is copyright to the Labour Research Department (LRD) and may not be reproduced without the permission of the LRD.